Introduction
Thailand, known as a country of “Land of Smiles,” sits at the heart of Southeast Asia. With a population of over 71 million people and a land area of 513,000 square kilometers, it is the region’s second-largest economy. The country combines tradition with modern growth, making it a vital hub for trade, investment, and regional integration. In this Thailand Country Profile, we offer a snapshot of Thailand’s demographics, economy, trade flows, and investment climate.
For detailed insights, you can download the FULL & FREE Thailand Country Profile 2025 at the end of this article.
Thailand Country Overview
Before exploring Thailand’s economy and trade, it is useful to look at some important facts about Thailand.
- Population: 71.6 million (2024).
- Median age: 41.5 years.
- Urbanization: 54%.
- Religion: 93.4% Buddhism.
- Thailand country currency: Thai Baht (THB) | 1 USD = 32.41 THB (July 2025).
- Major sectors: Agriculture, manufacturing, tourism, services, and natural resources.
Country of Thailand: Economic Overview
Thailand’s economy remains one of the most important in Southeast Asia. Thailand’s economy 2025 outlook reflects both resilience and ongoing challenges.
Thailand has a mixed economy with strengths in manufacturing, services, and agriculture. Although growth is projected to slow to 1.8% in 2025 and 1.7% in 2026, the country remains a strategic player in regional supply chains.
Exports reached US$300.5 billion in 2024, surpassing the US$300 billion mark for the first time. Thailand imports totaled US$306.8 billion, creating a trade deficit of US$6.28 billion.
Therefore, Thailand continues to depend on both exports and imports, with electronics, vehicles, and machinery among its top traded goods.
Trade in Thailand Overview
- Top exports (2024): Electronics (US$65B), vehicles (US$33.8B), machinery (US$36.1B), rubbers (US$19.2B), precious stones and metals (US$21.3B).
- Top import sources: Japan (US$80.6B), China (US$28.7B), the U.S. (US$17.4B), UAE (US$19.8B).
- Top export destinations: China (US$55.1B), the U.S. (US$35.2B), Japan (US$23.3B), Malaysia (US$12.3B).
As a result, Thailand’s role in global supply chains remains strong, especially in electronics and automotive manufacturing.
An Overview of Investment in Thailand
Foreign direct investment (FDI) inflows reached US$15 billion in 2024, the highest in a decade. More than 3,000 projects were approved under the government’s investment promotion framework, totaling US$31.4 billion in applications.
Thailand promotes its “Thailand 4.0” strategy, aiming to transform the country into a high-income economy by 2037.
Investors benefit from:
- Corporate tax incentives (up to 13 years of CIT exemption + 50% reduction for 5 more years).
- Special Economic Zones offering tax holidays, full foreign ownership, and duty exemptions.
- Import duty exemptions on machinery and raw materials.
- 60+ Double Taxation Agreements that lower cross-border tax burdens.
In addition, free trade agreements with 18 countries support stronger regional integration.
Look Ahead
Thailand is a gateway to ASEAN and an important trade center for global investors. Its economy is diverse, its labor force is large, and its government is pushing forward with innovation under the Thailand 4.0 plan.
📥 Download FULL & FREE [Thailand Country Profile 2025] to explore in-depth data on demographics, trade flows, investment trends, and sector insights in Thailand now.
However, challenges remain, from political risks to infrastructure gaps. Companies must weigh these carefully when planning market entry. Therefore, our Source of Asia (SOA) experts are here to support you with:
- Market intelligence and go-to-market strategies.
- Compliance and regulatory guidance.
- Sourcing and supply chain management.
- Local partner identification and business networking.
Connect with SOA today to navigate ASEAN with confidence!
Click on the image to save the file Thailand country profile 2025. (Source: Source of Asia)
Thailand Country Profile – FAQs
Thailand sits at the heart of mainland Southeast Asia, bordering Myanmar, Laos, Cambodia, and Malaysia. Its central location makes it a logistics hub for ASEAN.
Thailand’s economy is driven by manufacturing, agriculture, and tourism. Electronics, automotive, and food exports are the key growth engines.
Yes. Thailand provides tax incentives, a skilled workforce, and strategic access to major Asian markets. Thailand also attracts FDI in manufacturing, electronics, automotive, and green energy. Incentives and industrial zones support foreign investors.
Thailand has one of the largest automotive manufacturing hubs in Asia, producing more than two million vehicles each year.
Thailand benefits from ASEAN Free Trade Area, RCEP, and bilateral agreements, which reduce tariffs and open access to global markets.
According to the IMF 2025 forecast, Thailand ranks among the world’s top 30 economies by GDP, valued at around USD 580 billion.
Thailand offers modern ports, airports, and free trade zones. It is a regional hub for automotive and electronics supply chains.
